After winning three Super Bowls in four seasons earlier in the decade, the Patriots have another opportunity to raise a fourth banner at Gillette Stadium this season.

If 2011-2012 ends with New England raising the Lombardi Trophy, the discussion of greatest coach of all-time will come to an end.

There is no doubt the AFC Championship game is going to be the toughest test this season for the Patriots. But one thing is sure: Coach Belichick will give his team the tools to advance to Super Bowl XLVI.

Coach Belichick took over New England back in the year 2000 and posted a 5-11 record. The Patriots were mediocre at best, but that did not lower the morale of the Patriots boss.

Yes, Tom Brady took over the helm in the 2001 season and became a star immediately. He posted statistics that no one expected in New England. He led us to three Super Bowls, but don't forget Coach Belichick's bend-but-don't-break defense.

If the Patriots offense had an off week, the defense always stepped up. To this day, if New England's defense makes mistakes early in the game, Belichick will make adjustments like no other coach, and the defense will step up in the second half.

This season, Brady and Belichick surpassed Marino and Shula for most wins from a quarterback/coaching duo in history (117, ending this season with 123).

He has compiled a 139-53 record as New England's head coach. While having over a .700 winning percentage and three Super Bowl victories, there is no doubt Bill Belichick is one of the best ever at his trade.

With a 3-1 Super Bowl record, Belichick is second all-time in wins, only trailing Pittsburgh Steelers former coach Chuck Knoll, who has four championships.

One more Super Bowl win for the enigma that is Bill Belichick would certainly solidify him as the greatest of all-time.